New Delhi: In a significant move to strengthen India’s presence in global traditional medicine systems, Dr. Pawan K. Godatwar has been granted an extension of one year in his role as Technical Officer (Traditional Medicine) at the World Health Organization – South-East Asia Regional Office (WHO-SEARO), based in New Delhi.
The extension will be effective from October 3, 2025, to October 2, 2026, or until further orders, whichever comes earlier.
The decision was formally approved by the competent authority, following a proposal by the Ministry of Ayush, Government of India. Dr. Godatwar currently holds a position in the Kayachikitsa Department at the National Institute of Ayurveda (NIA), Jaipur — an autonomous body under the Ministry of Ayush — and is serving this international assignment on a secondment basis.
Strengthening India’s Voice in Global Traditional Medicine
Dr. Godatwar’s continued presence at WHO-SEARO plays a vital role in promoting traditional medicine systems, particularly Ayurveda, across Southeast Asia. His extension reflects the strategic intent of the Ministry of Ayush to deepen international collaboration, policy development, and knowledge exchange in traditional and complementary medicine.
With increasing global interest in holistic healthcare, India’s leadership in the field of traditional medicine is being recognized and integrated into global public health dialogue — and Dr. Godatwar’s role is central to that vision.
Background and Impact
Dr. Godatwar is a seasoned academic and practitioner in Ayurvedic medicine, with extensive experience in Kayachikitsa (internal medicine). His role at WHO-SEARO includes advising on traditional medicine policy, contributing to international guidelines, fostering inter-country collaboration, and supporting research and development.
The extension ensures continuity of critical initiatives under WHO-SEARO’s traditional medicine programs and further aligns with the WHO Global Centre for Traditional Medicine (GCTM) in Jamnagar, Gujarat, launched in partnership with the Government of India.
